What is the best audiobook service? You're not alone if you've ever wished you could read more but can't find the time. Maybe you're commuting an hour each way to work, folding endless loads of laundry, or logging miles on the treadmill. Audiobook services solve a problem that's become all too common: wanting to consume great literature, learn new skills, or just escape into a good story, but lacking the chunks of uninterrupted time to sit down with a physical book.
Very Good
Looking for an audiobook platform that respects your right to own what you buy? Check out Downpour by Blackstone Audio, an audiobook production company with roots dating back to 1987. While other platforms essentially rent you content that will disappear if they go out of business, Downpour's mission centers on freedom - letting you enjoy your favorite books "whenever, wherever, and on whatever device you choose."
Downpour keeps subscription simple with a one-size-fits-all approach
You'll pay a competitive $12.99 monthly for Downpour's Audiobook Club membership, which gets you one credit per month to spend on nearly any title. Need more? Additional credits are available at the same $12.99 price point - a significant savings compared to retail prices. Your credits don't disappear overnight either; they're valid for a full 12 months from issue date. (Use 'em or lose 'em, but you've got time.) In addition to your monthly credit, you'll unlock exclusive member-only promotions throughout the year. Even without a membership, Downpour regularly offers sales with titles under $5 and even under $1 for budget-conscious listeners.
You're in control of your audiobooks with Downpour's DRM-free approach
Downpour stands out from the competition by offering most of their titles completely DRM-free. This means you truly own what you buy and can listen on virtually any device without restrictions. When you download an audiobook, you can choose between MP3 format (compatible with most media players) or M4B files (which remember your place and work seamlessly with Apple devices). Even if you cancel your membership, your purchased audiobooks remain yours forever. There are no artificial limits on devices or listening methods, and you're free to convert between formats if needed. (Freedom feels good, doesn't it?) The rare DRM-protected titles are clearly marked before purchase, so you'll never be caught by surprise.
A vast, continuously updated library with something for every listener
You'll find a robust catalog at Downpour that stays current with new releases constantly being added to their collection. Content is thoroughly organized by genre categories (like fiction, nonfiction, horror, children's) and specialized collections like "At the Movies," "Award Winners," and "Popular Series." Explore by narrator through their "By Reader" category, and check out curated sections like "Trending" and "Best of Year" to help you find your next listen. Though Downpour doesn't appear to offer unique or original content (their planned 2021 "interactive audiobooks with alternate endings" mentioned on their ‘About' page seem to have never materialized), they do sell physical formats alongside digital downloads - including compact discs, MP3 CDs, and hardcover and paperback books. (One-stop shopping, anyone?)
Downpour's apps make listening easy across virtually any device you own
Downpour's app is available on iOS (4.5/5 stars), Android (4.1/5 stars), and Windows Mobile devices, but since most titles are DRM-free, you can listen on practically anything that plays MP3 or M4B files. Users of the app like its clean, straightforward interface - "exactly what I need, nothing I don't", as one reviewer put it. Offline listening is fully supported, whether through their dedicated app or by playing your downloaded files on any compatible device - from smartphones to tablets, e-readers, computers, and MP3 players.
Customer-friendly return policy with responsive support
If you encounter issues with your Downpour purchase or rental, you have a 30-day window to contact their customer service team for an exchange or refund. Need help? You can reach Downpour's Customer Care team via email or by calling their toll-free number. User reviews suggest the support team is generally responsive and helpful. For technical issues or general assistance, most customers find Downpour's support team easy to work with and accommodating.
Possible reduction in credit-eligible titles over the years
One complaint mentioned by a few customers is that there seem to be fewer credit-eligible titles than before. While Downpour's $12.99 credit price is a couple dollars lower than many of their competitors, the tradeoff may be that finding fewer titles redeemable by credit than in previous years. If those customers' perception is accurate, you might occasionally be forced to make direct purchases instead of using your credits. (Value is great, but only if you can use it where you want.)
Downpour is an audiobook service that puts you firmly in control
We love Downpour's DRM-free approach that lets you truly own what you buy. While better-known rivals might boast larger catalogs and flashier apps, Downpour counters with permanent ownership and flexible listening across any device that plays MP3s. The platform is a great choice for anyone building a permanent audiobook library and who hates being locked into proprietary ecosystems.
Continued from above...
You're not alone if you've ever wished you could read more but can't find the time. Maybe you're commuting an hour each way to work, folding endless loads of laundry, or logging miles on the treadmill. Audiobook services solve a problem that's become all too common: wanting to consume great literature, learn new skills, or just escape into a good story, but lacking the chunks of uninterrupted time to sit down with a physical book.
Whether you're a multitasker by necessity or simply prefer listening to reading, audiobooks let you turn downtime into story time - and that's a win for anyone trying to squeeze more culture into their day. But not all audiobook services are created equal. Some operate on a subscription model, giving you a set number of credits each month to "purchase" titles you'll own forever. Others work more like Netflix, offering unlimited streaming from a catalog as long as you keep paying your monthly fee.
Then there are the pay-per-title services, which let you buy audiobooks outright without any recurring commitment. Finally, there are library-based audiobook services, where your free ticket to entry is your library card. The model you choose will depend on how many books you listen to, whether you like to revisit favorites, and how much you're willing to spend.
Subscription services tend to dominate the audiobook landscape. They're popular because they offer decent value if you're a regular listener, typically giving you one or two credits per month that you can exchange for any audiobook in their catalog, regardless of retail price. This model works well if you devour lengthy fantasy epics or non-fiction tomes that would otherwise cost $30 or more. On the flip side, unlimited streaming services appeal to binge-listeners who tear through multiple books a week and don't care about "owning" them permanently. If you're the type who rarely re-reads (or re-listens), this can be a more economical route - though you'll want to make sure the catalog is robust enough to keep you entertained.
Audiobook subscription services differ when it comes to ethical considerations, too. You'll want to think about how the service supports authors and narrators, and their impact on the publishing industry as a whole. Some platforms offer better royalty rates or direct support for independent creators, while others prioritize corporate publishers. Library-based services allow you to borrow audiobooks for free using your library card, which supports public library systems. If supporting authors and fair compensation matters to you, you'll want to research how each service shares revenue with the people who create the content you enjoy.
So what should you actually look for when shopping for an audiobook service? Here are the key considerations:
Top Consumer Reviews has evaluated and ranked the audiobook services available today. We've looked at catalog depth, pricing models, app functionality, and overall user experience to help you find the service that fits your lifestyle. Whether you're a daily commuter looking to make the most of drive time or a fitness enthusiast who wants company on long runs, we hope this review helps you find the best audiobook service for you.
Compare Any 2 Products
So You Want to Hear About Audiobooks
If you're looking to decide if you should take the dive and get into audiobooks, you've come to the right place! We here at Top Consumer Reviews love audiobooks and have quite the extensive collection ourselves. There are plenty of reasons you may be unsure if audiobooks are right for you, but here are some ways to help you determine if this is the right step for you.
Audiobooks can often seem intimidating. It's not the same as reading, and can take a lot of time to listen to an entire book, so it's natural to be unsure if this will be the right fit for you. One way to tell if this is something to consider, is to look at your current listening time. Do you have a long commute to work? A long workout you never miss? Even long showers? If you have time now, that you spend listening to music or podcasts, then you should have time for an audiobook. It might seem like a big time commitment at first, since the book listening time can be several hours long, but just remember to listen in chunks and fit it in where you normally listen to things. Soon you'll be flying through books in no time!
Some people worry if the audiobook method will be boring. While some books may be dry, each one is different and it just depends on your tastes to see if the book is one you will like or not. Additionally, audiobooks are rather like podcasts, they can have a wide range of people for different characters that really add to the experience. Audiobooks can even be read by their own author, especially if that author is famous. You can feel closer to the likes of Nick Offerman or Amy Poehler as you hear them narrate their own books and life stories.
If that hasn't convinced you of how fun audiobooks can be, think of this: Audiobooks can be shared. You can literally have your own book club by sharing your favorite new book with whomever you want. Now you can have friends and family join in the fun as you all listen and share your favorite new book.
Another concern you might have may be about the cost. Some audiobook stores have a recurring membership. This can be good if you decide you like the audiobook world and want to continue on with a series, or listen to audiobooks often. However, you might not want to commit to a subscription right off the bat, and that's understandable. Some stores will let you buy one book at a time, if you just want to test the waters first and then that would be your best bet. A one time purchase may be the best for starting out, but chances are pretty soon you'll want that membership and all the benefits that come with it!
All in all, audiobooks are not going to be for everyone. Some people just never get into the feel of it. If you can take the first step of trying it out though, you might discover a whole new world of reading that you enjoy. We think it's well worth the risk, and you should take the plunge and start your newest adventure today!
Top Products.
Top Reviews.
Top Consumer Reviews.
Reviews
Browse through thousands of reviews.
Social Media
Like us? Follow us! We'd love to have you join our community.
Newsletter
Stay up to date with the latest reviews. We'll keep you informed, and we'll never sell your information to anyone.
